Mount Saint Joseph Celebrates the Ryken Award Legacy

A formal gathering at Mount Saint Joseph featuring a speaker at a podium and a line of honorees receiving the Ryken Award. The audience, primarily young men in suits, listens attentively.

Mount Saint Joseph proudly honors the Ryken Award, a distinguished recognition given to an adult community member who exemplifies the school’s mission and values. This prestigious award is presented not only at MSJ but also at other Xaverian Brothers-sponsored schools across the country, highlighting the enduring legacy of faith, service, and respect that defines the Xaverian tradition.

The award is named after Theodore Ryken, the founder of the Xaverian Brothers, who devoted his life to education and service. Ryken’s commitment to treating every person with dignity and respect continues to inspire the work and culture of Xaverian schools. The Ryken Award recognizes those who carry forward that legacy by living these principles in everyday life.

Portrait of Theodore Ryken, founder of the Xaverian Brothers, depicted in religious attire with a detailed expression and a symbolic necklace.

Recipients of the Ryken Award are individuals who embody all Xaverian values: compassion, humility, zeal, simplicity, and trust. They are committed to the school community, going above and beyond in their service to students, colleagues, and the broader MSJ family. Those who receive the award are honored as becoming “Giants” at Mount Saint Joseph, a symbolic acknowledgment of their lasting impact on the school community.

Over the years, the Ryken Award has been presented to remarkable members of the MSJ community, including Mr. Hoffman, Ms. Gallagher, Mrs. Campbell, Mr. Townshend, and, most recently, Mr. Schultheis. This year, Mr. Schultheis was recognized for his unwavering dedication to students, his mentorship of colleagues, and his consistent demonstration of Xaverian values in every interaction. His leadership, kindness, and commitment to the MSJ community make him a truly deserving recipient and a “Giant” in every sense.

Three men pose for a photo, standing in front of a Mount Saint Joseph backdrop. The center figure holds the Ryken Award while the others stand beside him, all smiling and dressed in formal attire.

The Ryken Award serves as a reminder of the importance of living out the Xaverian mission every day. By honoring those who exemplify these principles, Mount Saint Joseph continues to inspire all members of its community to lead with integrity, respect, and compassion, keeping Theodore Ryken’s vision alive for generations to come.